5.0(7 Reviews)Backcountry Trout Fishing Near Payson's Mogollon Rim
5.0(7 reviews)
Private Trip
Backcountry Fishing
Top Rated
Guided backcountry fishing for Gila, rainbow, and brown troutBeginnerfriendly with equipment and casting instruction providedScenic Mogollon Rim waters near accessible Payson locations
Looking for some of Arizona's best trout fishing without the crowds? Our 4 or 6-hour backcountry fishing trips around Payson put you right in the heart of some seriously productive waters. We're talking about crystal-clear mountain streams where Gila, rainbow, and brown trout thrive in the shadow of the Mogollon Rim. These aren't your typical stocked ponds – we're heading to the real deal backcountry spots where native fish have been living for generations. Whether you've never held a fly rod or you're looking to dial in your technique, our guides know exactly where the fish are holding and what they're eating on any given day.
This isn't a boat trip – we're hiking into some of the most beautiful fishing spots Arizona has to offer. The terrain varies from easy creek access to more remote canyon waters, but don't worry about the walk. We keep things manageable and focus on waters that are beginner-friendly but still hold quality fish. You'll be sight-fishing in gin-clear water where you can actually watch trout rise to your fly. The scenery alone is worth the trip, with towering ponderosa pines and red rock formations creating a backdrop that'll have you reaching for your phone between casts. Our guides handle all the logistics – from reading the water to selecting the right flies – so you can focus on the fun part.
We provide all the gear you need, from quality fly rods to a full selection of proven patterns. Our guides are masters at matching the hatch and know which flies work best in each specific stretch of water. You'll learn basic casting techniques if you're new to the sport, or we can help refine your approach if you've got some experience under your belt. We focus on dry fly fishing when conditions allow – there's nothing quite like watching a trout sip your fly off the surface. When the fish are being picky, we'll switch to nymphs and streamers that have proven track records in these waters. The best part? You don't need to bring anything except your fishing license and a sense of adventure.
"I went with Hugo who was my guide and he put me on the targeted fish species: Gila Trout. He knew which flies to use and which techniques worked best on catching these fish. Hugo said that usually clients catch 3 Gila Trout but I caught 9 before it got too crowded. So that shows that listening to the guide works!" - Marcus
"I fished with Kris. We stalked Gila and Brown Trout in the high elevation creeks about 2 hours from Scottsdale. What a great day. Kris knows his territory and is a true professional and his craft. Had a great hot lunch too on a cold wet day. Fish with him when/if you can." - Rob
"Derek hooked us up with the guide, Niko is a great guide who loves the sport. We caught 3 different species with his guidance, Gila, Rainbow, and Brown. He was both Ami and knowledgeable. You won't go wrong if you get him. Forgot some gear and stopped by a great fly shop in Phoenix, Pheasant Tail Fly Shop. If you need any extras before your trip, this is the place. Thank you lowaterguide.com for a great trip 👍👍" - James
Gila trout are the real prize of these waters and what most anglers come here specifically to target. These native Arizona beauties are absolutely gorgeous fish with distinctive golden flanks and vibrant spots. They're typically found in the cooler, higher elevation streams and can be incredibly selective feeders. When you hook into one, you'll know it – they fight hard and have a tendency to jump. Spring through early fall offers the best opportunities, with morning and evening being prime feeding times. Gilas are special because they're found nowhere else in the world except the Southwest, making them a true bucket-list species for serious trout anglers.
Rainbow trout in these Arizona streams are some of the most colorful you'll ever see. The high-altitude environment and clean water produce fish with vivid pink stripes and brilliant silver sides. They're typically the most aggressive feeders and will often take dry flies with enthusiasm. Rainbows here average 10-14 inches but don't let the size fool you – they're acrobatic fighters that'll test your skills. They're active throughout the day but really turn on during mayfly and caddis hatches. These fish respond well to attractor patterns and are often the first species beginners connect with on our trips.
Brown trout are the wary veterans of these mountain streams. They're typically the largest fish you'll encounter, with specimens pushing 16-18 inches not uncommon in the deeper pools. Browns are notorious for being selective and often require a more subtle presentation. They prefer undercut banks and deeper water during the day, making them perfect targets for streamer fishing. Early morning and late evening are prime time for browns, when they move into shallower water to feed. Landing a quality brown from these backcountry waters is something you'll remember for years – they're smart, strong, and absolutely beautiful with their golden-brown coloration and distinctive red spots.
Arizona's backcountry trout fishing is something every angler should experience at least once, and these waters around Payson offer some of the state's most consistent action. Our guides live and breathe these streams year-round, so you're getting insider knowledge that takes decades to develop. Whether you choose the 4-hour trip for a taste of what Arizona trout fishing is all about, or go for the full 6-hour adventure to really dial in your technique, you
Your feet are your vessel on this backcountry fishing adventure through Payson's pristine waters near the Mogollon Rim. We'll hike to hidden spots where Gila, rainbow, and brown trout thrive in crystal-clear streams and pools. These walking trips take you away from crowded fishing holes to secluded waters that most anglers never see. The terrain varies from gentle creek-side paths to moderate climbs, but every step leads to better fishing opportunities. We'll cover 2-4 miles depending on conditions and where the fish are biting. Your guide knows the secret trails that lead to the most productive pools and runs. No waders needed - we'll teach you to read the water and position yourself for the perfect cast from shore. The hike itself becomes part of the fishing strategy as we move between multiple spots throughout the day. Pack light and let your boots carry you to some of Arizona's best-kept trout fishing secrets.
Salvelinus FontinalisBrook trout are the gems of our smaller, cooler streams around Payson. These beauties typically run 8-14 inches with stunning olive-green backs dotted with yellow spots and distinctive red spots circled in blue. They're found in the cleanest, coldest water - usually tucked under fallen logs, behind boulders, or in deeper pools where temperatures stay below 68°F. Spring and fall are prime time when they're most active and feeding aggressively. What makes them special is their wariness - they spook easily, making every catch feel earned. They're also fantastic eating with sweet, delicate meat. Here's a local trick: approach brook trout spots from downstream and keep your shadow off the water. They see everything, so stealth is key to success.
Tylosurus AcusBrown trout are the smart ones - they grow big and get crafty with age. These golden-brown beauties average 10-18 inches but can push over 24 inches in our deeper holes. Look for them hiding under cut banks, near submerged logs, or in the deeper pools during daylight hours. They prefer water temps between 54-65°F and tend to be most active during low-light periods - early morning, late evening, or overcast days. What guests love about browns is their fight - they're strong, stubborn, and will test your skills. Plus, they're excellent table fare with firm, flaky meat. Fall is prime time when they get aggressive before spawning. Pro tip: browns are night feeders, so don't overlook those deeper, darker spots during the day where they like to rest.
Oncorhynchus MykissRainbow trout are our most reliable fighters, known for those signature pink stripes and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Around here, they typically run 10-16 inches and love the faster-flowing sections with gravelly bottoms and good oxygen flow. You'll find them in riffles, tail-outs of pools, and anywhere current brings food their way. They prefer temps between 55-64°F and are most active during spring and early summer when insect hatches are heavy. What makes rainbows special is their aggressive nature - they'll hit dry flies, nymphs, and small spinners with equal enthusiasm. They're also great eating with that distinctive pink meat. My go-to tip: look for rising fish during morning and evening hatches, and don't be afraid to fish the shallow, fast water where others might skip.
5.0 out of 5.0Thank you, Jarod!
I went with Hugo who was my guide and he put me on the targeted fish species: Gila Trout. He knew which flies to use and which tec...
Loved going fishing with Hugo, he put me in the right spots! From Alabama, and loved the landscape, was very fortunate to be able ...
Thank you, Seth!
I fished with Kris. We stalked Gila and Brown Trout in the high elevation creeks about 2 hours from Scottsdale. What a great day. ...
Derek hooked us up with the guide, Niko is a great guide who loves the sport. We caught 3 different species with his guidance, Gi...
Ryan did a very good job did his best to get us on fish. The creek we fished on had limited opportunities and think it gets a lot ...
Ryan did a very good job did his best to get us on fish. The creek we fished on had limited opportunities and think it gets a lot ...
Phoenix, AZ